You can use MyTravel to claim most per diem expenses as they’re calculated automatically based on location and duration. See Using MyTravel.

For travel 29 days or less in the continental U.S., per diem does not apply. Use MyTravel to claim actual costs for lodging and Meals and Incidentals Expenses (M&IE) — not to exceed the allowable maximum.Note: Claiming per diem is limited to business travel and shouldn't be used to initiate payment that is compensation. For foreign travel, travelers should only claim actual travel expenses (e.g., subsistence and lodging) up to the per diem rate. Learn more about claiming actual expenses to save costs, or as an exception if costs exceed the allowable per diem.

You can estimate expenses based on the published per diem rate, but if actual expenses are below the published rate, actual should be claimed:

Number of days x per diem rate = total per diem for location

Add the totals for each location to determine the total per diem allowance for the travel event.

To estimate expenses for long term trips, the recommendation is to use the published rate with a 55% calculation:

Number of days x per diem rate x 55% = total per diem for location.Note: Only claim less than the published per diem amount if the:

Traveler spent 30 days or more outside the continental U.S.

Intent is to cut costs

Traveler is aware of the adjustment

Add the totals for each location to determine the total per diem allowance for the travel event.

Note: Receipts for lodging and meals are not required by UC San Diego Travel policy when claiming per diem. Receipts for lodging and meals are required when per diem would apply, but you're claiming actual expenses due to special circumstances.

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Notice: UC San Diego travel policy, as published in Blink, is decisive. It has been adapted to UC San Diego's organization, delegation of authority, terminology, chart of accounts and processing applications. The source for UC San Diego travel policy is UC Travel Policy and Regulations (PDF).